About: The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a relaxing, entertaining, and educational experience for the entire family. They’ve been at their current location since 1975, and care for over 400 animals, representing over 150 species. Each year they engage and educate more than 300,000 visitors, both at the zoo and in the community!

Address: 3755 NW Hwy 17-92 Sanford, FL

Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm

Cost:

Adults: $19.50

Seniors 60+: $15.95

Children 3-12 years: $13.75

Children 2 and under: FREE

Activity: The zoo has things to do but we suggest making a special visit to see the new black bear exhibit.

Local Tip: The bears are most active from 9-10 am, so plan to get there when they open.

About: You can sit inside or outside, but no matter where you sit, you can enjoy beer, cider, meads, and specialty sodas. Quality, locally sourced ingredients plus their unique celery beer make this a Sanford gem!

Address: 400 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

Arrive: Whenever you want!

Activity: Try some celery beer, have an old favorite drink, laugh with your friends, repeat

If you’re exhausted from all the merriment, and you’re not from nearby, don’t feel like you have to leave! Stick around Sanford (or a nearby town) and stay at one of our quality hotels. Click here for a list of places you can stay!

Let’s be honest, the great outdoors has been upstaged lately by the comfy and plugged-in environment that is the modern American home. So, for you parents who want your kids playing outside like you did growing up, this can be an uphill battle....